Prescription Eye Protection: Understanding the Difference Between Safety Glasses Versus Safety Goggles
Eyes are more fragile than most people realize, especially in the workplace or athletic settings. Wearing prescription eye protection is one of the best ways to prevent common eye injuries.
Safety eyewear is technically a form of personal protection equipment (PPE). Depending on the design of the glasses or goggles, the eyewear can protect the wearer’s eyes against particulates, chemicals, liquids, or other debris.
Regardless of the eyewear style, all safety eyewear must pass specific regulations. The regulations stipulate optical class and mechanical strength of the eyewear.
Safety eyewear typically comes in two forms: glasses and goggles. While many attributes are similar between the two designs, some key differences exist.
Defining Safety Glasses
A pair of prescription safety glasses is a more airy style of prescription eye protection. The area protected in glasses designs often depends on the lens size and shape. Also, glasses allow for various coatings to protect against different hazards.
More sophisticated designs will have a wraparound lens and minimize the distance between the frames and the wearer’s face. A good pair of safety glasses will cover the entire socket and the peripheries.
Defining Safety Goggles
A pair of prescription safety goggles will look more like a pair of swimming goggles, with the lenses and frame held to the face with an elastic band. Also, safety goggles often have a padding or soft inner seal to improve comfort for the wearer.
Wearers want a snug fit when wearing goggles, so designers try to increase comfort at contact points. The entire eye and socket should have full coverage when wearing safety goggles.
Acknowledging the Differences
When looking for eye protection, a wearer should consider the level of protection they require and how often they will need to wear the frames. Safety glasses are usually more comfortable and offer fair protection in a more casual setting or on some job sites.
Safety goggles offer more protection because the inner seal creates a snug fit to the face, limiting the possibility of rogue debris making it behind the lenses. Also, safety goggles can allow for more dense materials and a higher impact rating.
Regarding comfort and long-term wear, safety glasses allow for maximum breathability, and they are usually lighter and more comfortable to wear than goggles. However, some goggles include vents to improve breathability, and the straps are adjustable, allowing for a custom fit; however, wearers should not make the strap too loose as that can defeat the purpose.
Prescription eye protection is crucial in many different environments. People may need safety glasses in home garages, construction sites, or athletic fields. The type of eye protection you need will depend on the level of protection you need and the level of comfort you expect. Safety glasses are comfortable and suitable for many activities, but safety goggles may offer more protection. Check out the selection of safety eyewear at Safety Gear Pro.
FAQs
1. Do prescription glasses count as safety glasses?
Prescription glasses are not the same as prescription safety glasses. Safety glasses are held to rigorous testing standards to ensure they can hold up to active or job site wear. The lenses of prescription safety glasses or goggles are stronger than standard lenses in glasses. Also, the frames are more durable.
2. Can you wear safety glasses or goggles all day?
Wearing safety goggles or glasses all day will not damage your eyes, meaning you can wear them all day if you must. Most people will find goggles to be too cumbersome for all-day wear. However, finding an appropriate style and fit for your face can improve your comfort level.
3. Do you have to wear safety glasses or goggles?
Not all activities or occupations will require the use of safety glasses or goggles. You will need to review company policies and job requirements. In some situations, an employer requires eye protection to conform to OSHA requirements. Also, some sports leagues require protective eyewear, including some youth sports organizations.
4. Can you use safety glasses or goggles as sunglasses?
Some safety-rated eyewear is suitable for use as sunglasses, primarily when designed for outdoor activities. Most safety goggles or glasses intended for indoor use will not provide much protection against the sun, but some frames for outdoor sports will have extra UV protection.
5. Why is it important to wear safety goggles or glasses?
The primary purpose of safety goggles and glasses is to protect the wearer against eye injuries. Airborne chemicals, flying debris, or even dust can cause significant trauma to the eye. Safety eyewear is an adequate and reliable defense against eye injuries in garages, shops, warehouses, sports arenas, etc.
